Pinoy Art in Manila

Don your culture specs for a tour of these awesome art spots showcasing Pinoy art and homegrown talents.

 A one-stop-shop for an impressive range of the country’s finest artworks is the city’s National Museum of The Philippines. With fine art, archaeological wonders, ethnographic displays plus a natural history section, this magnificent collection enables you to deep dive into the history and culture of the country. Take on a historic adventure and walkthrough three different buildings, The National Museum of Anthropology, The National Museum of Fine Arts, and The National Museum of National History. 

The impressive glass-clad facade of the Ayala Museum, a newly renovated art and history museum at the heart of Makati City, is an architectural delight in itself, yet you’ll want to explore more than just the exterior. Permanent exhibitions include the Gold of Ancestors, which features a veritable trove of pre-colonial artefacts, plus an exquisite array of Filipino textiles and ceramics.

Pop along to the Pinto Art Museum which showcases contemporary and native art amid verdant garden surrounds. It’s well worth the 45-minute schlep from central Manila to Antipolo – upon arrival you’ll be treated to an abundance of well-preserved sculptures, paintings and craftwork, all housed in serene white-washed buildings. Not convinced? The onsite cafe nestled under leafy vines might sway you.

Looking for contemporary art and cutting-edge exhibitions? 1335 Mabini, which moved to Makati in 2017, is at the forefront of nouveau Filipino art, championing local artists including Poklong Anading and Kiri Dalena. Check out the website for the gallery’s bonus programmes, which include exhibitions, lectures and art fairs.

National Museum of The Philippines / Padre Burgos Ave, Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila / 9:00 am to 5:00 pm / Tuesdays to Sundays
Ayala Museum / Greenbelt Park 1200, Makati / 10:00 am to 5:30 pm / Wednesdays to Sundays
Pinto Art Museum / 1 Sierra Madre St, Grand Heights Subdivision, Antipolo, 1870 Rizal / 10:00 am to 6:00 pm / Tuesdays to Sundays
1335 Mabini / 2316 Chino Roces Ave Extension, Karrivin Plaza, Makati, 1630 / 10:00 am to 6:00 pm / Mondays to Saturdays